Can Tourists Drive in Dubai

Waheed Akhtar
By Waheed Akhtar
Nov 9, 2018Updated: Aug 18, 2023

If you are traveling to Dubai, the first thing that comes up to your mind is Can tourists drive in Dubai? or maybe Are tourists allowed to drive in Dubai? Dubai is known for its big roads and luxury cars.

Can Tourists Drive in Dubai

Compared to most countries, you can rent high-end cars and jeeps in Dubai. You may want to explore Dubai by driving yourself. Driving in the Dubai desert by yourself is nothing less than an adventure. Again, it all depends on the very same question ā€Can tourists drive in Dubaiā€ Let me help you answer this question.

Driving in Dubai Left or Right

In Dubai and the UAE, it is mandatory to drive on the right-hand side of the road. All vehicles in this region have their steering wheels located on the left side, making it important for drivers to be aware of this rule.

It is similar to the USA, Canada, Germany, and France, unlike in the UK, Pakistan, South Africa, and other countries.

Driving in DubaiĀ can be confusing for those who are not from the country as driving is done on the opposite side of the road compared to other countries. However, driving in Dubai follows the same system as in most Middle East countries, which is driving on the right side of the road . This means that traffic will travel in a clockwise direction around roundabouts, cars driving faster than the speed limit must pass on the left, and cars driving slower than the speed limit will travel on the right. It is important to adhere to all driving laws when driving in Dubai as there are often hefty fines for those who break traffic rules.

Ticket for Local Transportation in Dubai

In Dubai, if you wish to use local transportation options like the metro, buses, taxis, and trams, you must have a Nol ticket or Nol Red Ticket.

This particular ticket is suitable for travelers who occasionally use public transportation. It is a low-cost paper-based ticket purchased at any ticket vending machine for just AED 2.

Temporary Driving License

Tourists on a visitĀ visa required an international drivingĀ license in conjunction with their national driving permit to drive in UAE. Alternatively, you can apply for a temporary driver’s license if you hold a driving from these countries:

RTA Theory Test

You can download our theory test application if you want to apply for a driving license in the United Arab Emirates. It includes all of the theory test questions you’ll need to prepare for the exam.

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google Play

Rule for UAE Residents

If you have changed your visa type and hold a resident visa, you must apply for a UAE driving license. If you have a driving license fromĀ these countries, the process becomes simple. You have to show your driving license and do a little paperwork, and that is it.

Others may need to pass a few written and practical tests. For a complete guide, please reviewĀ how to get a UAE driving license.

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